MC Fireside Chats, an Outdoor Hospitality Podcast

Hosted by Modern Campground LLC

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Jun 2026

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About the show

Join Brian Searl as we discuss important topics and recent news from the outdoor hospitality industry. Our weekly episodes will feature guests ranging from campground owners to companies that provide products/services, and much more.

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June 10, 202655 min

MC Fireside Chats - June 10th, 2026

The June 10th, 2026, episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, brought together a panel of outdoor hospitality experts to discuss driving campground demand, leveraging social media, defining target customer personas, and navigating shifting macroeconomic indicators. The conversation began with lighthearted banter about adult preferences for sweets before transitioning into introductions and updates from the recurring panelists. Joe Duemig shared news about his upcoming year-long relocation to Spain, explaining his goal to immerse himself in the local culture rather than constantly traveling.The participants introduced themselves and provided updates on their respective operations. Joe Duemig introduced himself as the founder of App My Community, a mobile application designed to enhance communication and guest experiences at RV resorts and campgrounds. Jeremy Johnson, co-owner of Camp Kona Hills in Marquette, Michigan, reported that his property was officially three weeks into its camping season on the shores of Lake Superior. Devyn Johnson, property manager at Canopy RV Resort in New Braunfels, Texas, noted that her year-round resort was approaching its third anniversary.Jeremy Johnson opened the business discussion by emphasizing his current focus on driving demand and increasing occupancy rates. He observed that while his campground benefits from inherent demand due to its proximity to a national park, he is actively seeking strategies to create demand rather than just capturing it. Jeremy noted strong summer reservations, speculating that more vacationers from the Midwest are choosing to drive rather than fly. Brian Searl validated this trend by citing recent Consumer Price Index (CPI) data, which revealed a 27% year-over-year surge in airline ticket prices, making road trips a highly attractive alternative for consumers.To build demand intentionally, Jeremy shared details about his participation in a marketing cohort led by industry expert Ben Wolff. The program focuses on teaching operators how to generate content at scale, monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), and establish distinct user personas. Jeremy identified four specific buyer personas for Camp Kona Hills: the urban escapee, the weekend warrior, the outdoor enthusiast couple, and the silent sports enthusiast. By structuring content around these unique profiles, his team can effectively test engagement across various social media platforms.Devyn Johnson supported Jeremy’s emphasis on digital marketing, drawing from her professional background in social media marketing. Since stepping into the manager role at Canopy RV Resort and hiring a dedicated social media specialist, the property achieved a 15% to 18% occupancy growth over a six-month period. Devyn explained that their Texas market is highly saturated and competitive, with multiple parks within walking distance. Canopy RV Resort positions itself as the largest and highest-priced option in the immediate area, but they successfully justify their premium rates by consistently selling their unique brand experience through platforms like TikTok and Facebook.The panel then debated the ongoing "amenities race" within the campground industry, which Brian noted had peaked heavily between 2020 and 2024. Brian cautioned that parks without clear differentiation often struggle in crowded markets, and he advised traditional parks to embrace their true identity rather than force expensive, uncharacteristic additions like lazy rivers. Jeremy explained that Camp Kona Hills leans directly into its fully rustic identity, even utilizing social media content that highlights their lack of mainstream amenities. Joe Duemig added that there is a distinct difference between being amenity-rich and being curated, noting a growing market for intentionally curated experiences over cookie-cutter activities.The group discussed how micro-targeted geographic features and local wildlife can serve as unexpected demand generators. Jeremy shared that his park attracts visitors from specialized birding apps due to an on-site eagle's nest and sightings of the rare Kirtland's Warbler. Brian pointed out that as artificial intelligence tools like Gemini and ChatGPT function increasingly as personal travel assistants, campgrounds should publish highly specific local content on their websites. By creating dedicated pages for niche interests—such as birdwatching, construction crews, or traveling nurses—operators give AI models the necessary data to automatically recommend their property to highly targeted travelers.Joe Duemig provided international perspective by reflecting on his recent trip to Queensland, Australia, highlighting distinct market differences. While U.S. gas prices have experienced a slight reprieve, Australian campers are facing a reported "fuel crisis," with prices climbing over 25% to roughly $2.10 AUD per liter. This spike has made Australian travelers highly cautious about discretionary spending and long-distance travel. Additionally, Joe observed that Australian parks frequently feature high-quality communal kitchens as a standard offering, shifting the focus toward shared public experiences rather than private campsite luxuries.This observation triggered a discussion regarding campsite infrastructure, comparing expensive concrete pads against alternative surfaces. Jeremy stated that his property features entirely grass lots, which perfectly match his target market of smaller camper vans and class C motorhomes. Devyn noted that Canopy RV Resort uses crushed granite sites with paved parking spots rather than full concrete slabs. Instead of over-investing in concrete infrastructure, her resort prioritizes high-end community spaces, including a grand room, a covered patio with propane grills, a pool, and an outdoor entertainment center, which remain heavily occupied by guests year-round.Brian introduced statistical findings from an extensive database project where his team scraped North American campground websites. When analyzing private RV parks in Florida, "community" emerged as the most frequently used marketing term on owner websites, yet a sentiment analysis of five-star guest reviews revealed that consumers rarely used the word "community" explicitly. Devyn suggested that the disconnect might be semantic, noting that since her resort transitioned away from a corporate management company to a personalized, relationship-driven approach, their reviews heavily praise individual staff members by name, which inherently reflects a successful community environment.Toward the end of the broadcast, Jayne Cohen, founder and CEO of Campground Consulting Group, joined the panel after attending a quarterly economic briefing hosted by the RV Industry Association (RVIA). Jayne delivered a sobering update, noting that wholesale RV shipments are being adjusted downward as consumer discretionary spending tightens under current interest rates. However, Jayne and Brian agreed that a slowdown in RV sales does not equal an immediate crisis for campground operators. Because millions of consumers already own RVs, they are unlikely to cancel vacations entirely; rather, they will adjust their travel habits, stay closer to home, or modify their lengths of stay.The episode concluded with a unanimous warning from the experts against cutting marketing budgets during economic uncertainty. Jayne emphasized that when times are tight, operators must intensify their marketing efforts to capture new customers, as historical repeat bookings and traditional referrals may naturally decline. Devyn, Jeremy, and Joe shared their final thoughts and contact directories, reinforcing that consistent social media engagement, clear storytelling, and distinct identity positioning remain the most reliable tools for modern campgrounds to sustain growth and outpace local competition.

June 3, 20261 hr 4 min

MC Fireside Chats -June 3rd, 2026

The June 3, 2026, episode of MC Fireside Chats brought together a diverse panel of industry experts to unpack the current state of the outdoor hospitality market. Host Brian Searl was joined by recurring guests Scott Bahr of Cairn Consulting Group and Simon Neal of CampMap, alongside special guests Paul Bosley of Business Finance Depot and Ed O. Bridgman of EOB Consulting. The conversation quickly dove into the macroeconomic realities facing the sector, highlighting a distinct divergence between the traditional RV market and the rapidly expanding glamping industry. As the first week of the month, the discussion stayed true to its theme of exploring market trends, data, and actionable insights for campground and resort owners.Scott Bahr opened the core discussion by sharing his main takeaways from the recent RVs Move America week. He noted a palpably serious tone among industry leaders, driven by a significant slowdown in RV shipments and retail sales, which are currently down nearly 18% and 10% year-over-year, respectively. Instead of merely identifying problems, Bahr observed that manufacturers and industry advocates are now actively seeking concrete solutions to stimulate the market. A major concern discussed was the declining participation rate among Generation Z, a demographic that is crucial for the future health of both RV manufacturing and campground occupancy.Despite the headwinds in the traditional RV space, Paul Bosley highlighted the explosive and resilient growth within the glamping sector. He noted that his finance company is seeing more activity from glamping developers than traditional RV parks, a trend validated by massive institutional moves, such as Marriott launching its own glamping division. Bosley explained that the financial barrier to entry for glamping can be much lower, with projects ranging from a few hundred thousand dollars to develop a couple of acres with tiny homes, making it an attractive secondary income stream for landowners. This influx of creative, alternative accommodations is capturing the attention of the broader hotel and franchise industries.Ed O. Bridgman provided a contrasting perspective on the sheer scale of modern RV destination development. While small glamping sites are proliferating, Bridgman revealed he is currently consulting on massive projects, including a $150 million RV destination that also integrates a traditional hotel on its 153-acre footprint. He emphasized that despite economic concerns, premium, well-designed outdoor hospitality properties are maintaining strong occupancy rates and are largely shielded from the downturn affecting mid-market, transient RV parks. This points to a "K-shaped" economic reality within the industry, where luxury and highly amenitized resorts continue to thrive while standard mom-and-pop campgrounds face tighter margins.A surprising driver of new RV park development, according to Bridgman, is the nationwide boom in data center construction, particularly in the Northeast. These massive infrastructure projects require thousands of temporary construction and tech workers who often live full-time in RVs for months at a time. This has created an urgent, localized demand for functional, long-term RV communities rather than transient vacation parks. Bridgman noted that local governments, eager to secure the tax revenue from data centers, are heavily expediting the permitting and development processes for these essential worker RV communities.Providing an international perspective, Simon Neal shared updates from the European camping market, which is experiencing its own set of macroeconomic uncertainties. Early season bookings in Europe have seen a slight dip, mirroring global economic caution, though Neal anticipates a last-minute surge as summer weather improves. A prominent trend emerging across European sites is the search for "comfort" and a strong return to family-oriented travel. European travelers are increasingly seeking out high-end, resort-style amenities such as private pools and premium cabins, even within otherwise standard campgrounds.The conversation then shifted to a fascinating comparison of site development costs between Europe and the United States. Neal shared that a well-appointed, natural-style RV pitch in a five-star European resort can be developed for roughly $15,000. In stark contrast, Bridgman and Searl noted that American RV sites routinely cost between $60,000 and $80,000 to develop. This massive discrepancy is largely due to the American reliance on heavy infrastructure, such as poured concrete pads and asphalt roads, whereas European sites often utilize leveled earth, crushed gravel, and natural landscaping to separate spaces.This cost analysis sparked a debate on whether American developers are over-engineering their parks by blindly copying pandemic-era luxury blueprints. Bosley shared an anecdote about advising a Jellystone Park developer to switch from concrete to crushed gravel, significantly reducing costs without detracting from the guest experience. The panel theorized that by adopting a more European approach to individual site construction, American campground owners could save immense amounts of capital, which could then be redirected into building better communal amenities like pools and entertainment venues.The panel agreed that diversifying site offerings is crucial for modern campgrounds looking to capture a broader audience. Offering a mix of high-end glamping units, premium concrete pull-throughs, and more natural, affordable gravel sites allows parks to cater to various income levels and travel styles. This diversification not only protects the business from economic shifts but also aligns with the desires of younger generations and solo travelers who prioritize experiences and natural surroundings over massive, sterile concrete infrastructure.Finally, the discussion turned toward the impending impact of electric vehicles (EVs) on the outdoor hospitality space. Bridgman issued a strong warning to campground owners regarding the arrival of fully electric, 80,000-pound Class A motorcoaches that will draw unprecedented amounts of power. He stressed that many legacy "mom-and-pop" parks currently operate on outdated, daisy-chained electrical grids that will physically not be able to support the 100-amp draws of these future vehicles. The panel concluded that while this technological shift may be intimidating and costly, embracing EV infrastructure will be an unavoidable necessity to attract the next generation of campers.

May 27, 202659 min

MC Fireside Chats - May 27th, 2026

The episode kicked off with host Brian Searl, Founder & CEO of Insider Perks and Modern Campground, noting a lighter panel than usual due to last-minute travel changes among the recurring guests. However, he quickly pivoted to emphasize that smaller panels often yield highly valuable, in-depth conversations, which certainly proved true for this broadcast.Brian was first joined by Cara Csizmadia, President of the Canadian Camping and RV Association (CCRVA). Cara shared exciting updates regarding her ongoing advocacy work in Ottawa, noting a highly positive sentiment from the federal government regarding the campground industry. She also highlighted her upcoming initiatives with municipal leaders across Canada to address regional challenges.Rounding out the panel was Amber Simpson, Founder and Lead Strategist at MartrekDigital. Amber brought her deep expertise in outdoor hospitality marketing to the table, framing the discussion around how campground owners must practicalize their approach to digital tools and adapt to modern consumer search behaviors.The conversation naturally transitioned into the adoption of physical technology and robotics within campgrounds. Cara noted that park owners are increasingly open to innovations like robotic lawnmowers to combat ongoing labor shortages. Brian humorously envisioned a custom robot designed solely to safely transport intoxicated campers back to their sites, though Amber joked that an insurance agent would likely advise against it.A significant, candid portion of the dialogue centered on the environmental implications of artificial intelligence. Cara pointed out that the campground demographic—both owners and guests—is highly environmentally conscious. She noted that concerns over AI data centers' water and power consumption present a very real barrier to adoption for operators who pride themselves on sustainability.Brian validated these concerns but grounded the conversation in a broader reality. He argued that while data centers do use resources, much of the water is recycled, and the overall environmental impact is significantly less than other sectors, such as the global airline industry. He stressed that campground owners will ultimately be forced to balance their environmental principles with the undeniable business necessity of adopting AI.Amber shifted the focus to the urgency of this adoption, highlighting recent Google I/O announcements. With Google integrating AI Overviews directly into standard search results, consumer booking habits are shifting from simple keyword searches to complex, conversational queries. She warned that campgrounds failing to optimize their websites for these specific, descriptive searches risk completely losing visibility to potential guests.The panel also addressed the sobering realities of the current economic climate. Acknowledging that Memorial Day 2026 saw lower transient occupancy rates across the industry, the group attributed this dip to a combination of inflation, high gas prices, and regional inclement weather. Amber stressed that operators must focus on justifying their pricing through unique guest experiences and authentic storytelling, rather than making the panic move of immediately slashing rates.To combat these economic headwinds, Amber strongly advised operators to pivot toward hyper-local marketing strategies. By diligently optimizing their Google Business Profiles and opening certain campground amenities—like a weekend breakfast—to the local community, parks can generate new revenue streams and attract nearby campers who are consciously reducing their travel distances.Wrapping up the episode, Brian briefly showcased a new AI-powered WordPress plugin developed by his team aimed at automating complex SEO tasks for campground owners. Cara provided a final, empathetic piece of wisdom, reminding operators that the digital landscape can feel isolating, but they do not need to tackle these technological shifts alone; leaning on trusted industry partners and marketing experts is key to surviving and thriving.

May 20, 202656 min

MC Fireside Chats - May 20th, 2026

The episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl of Insider Perks and Modern Campground, featured a deep-dive interview with Jon Thatcher, the owner of Shady Oaks Camping Resort in Plattsburgh, New York. Due to last-minute scheduling conflicts pulling away the rest of the panel, the episode shifted into an intimate look at the reality of modern campground ownership. Jon introduced himself as a relative newcomer to the outdoor hospitality industry, having purchased his resort in August 2024. Over the last two years, he has been deeply involved in renovating the property, learning the industry's operational nuances, and bringing a fresh perspective to a sector historically dominated by long-term operators.Before entering the outdoor hospitality space, Jon spent over 15 years working in the education reform sector, most recently serving as the Chief Operating Officer for a small charter school network in the Capital Region of New York. He stepped away from that career at the end of 2023, transitioning into consulting through the spring of 2024. The catalyst for his massive career pivot was a personal road trip he took after purchasing an RV. Although Jon had camped as a child growing up near the Adirondacks, he was new to adult RVing. During this trip, he fell in love with the culture, realized he wanted a significant life change, and sought a way to move closer to his aging parents, ultimately placing Shady Oaks under contract before his road trip even concluded.Jon emphasized that his childhood experiences growing up near the tourist town of Ticonderoga heavily influenced his decision to buy a campground, noting that nostalgic memories of a vibrant community and the smell of campfires made the transition feel right. Brian tied this into recent industry research, specifically referencing a white paper on Gen Z camping behaviors released by Insider Perks. Brian noted a historical decline in outdoor engagement over the last two decades, pointing to the rise of social media and smartphone technology as factors that eliminated healthy boredom and disconnected younger generations from nature. Jon, however, offered an optimistic outlook, suggesting that this societal disconnect presents a prime opportunity to build more campgrounds and intentionally broaden outdoor appeal.The conversation then turned toward how the industry can better engage Gen Z, Gen Alpha, and younger Millennials. Jon pointed out that financial affordability is a major hurdle, noting that the rising cost of modern RVs makes them feel like an unattainable luxury for younger demographics. To combat this, Shady Oaks has focused on making the outdoors accessible by expanding and renovating its traditional tent sites. Brian expanded on the psychological barriers found in their research, explaining that unlike older generations who grew up with natural outdoor exposure, many younger people experience anxiety regarding outdoor logistics, such as pitching tents, managing bugs, or dealing with the public embarrassment of making a mistake online. Brian argued that the industry often incorrectly assumes these demographics possess baseline camping knowledge, meaning operators must pivot from basic marketing to active fear-alleviation and guidance.Jon admitted that he had previously viewed the problem purely through a marketing lens, but agreed that treating it as an accessibility and educational gap shifts the business's responsibility. At Shady Oaks, the business model focuses on creating a unified community experience through live music and communal events, regardless of whether a guest checks in to an RV site, a tent site, or a glamping unit. To bridge the gap for socially anxious or highly digitized younger campers, Brian shared an AI-generated concept from their Gen Z report called the Green Lantern initiative. In this setup, campers are given lanterns that can be turned green to signal to neighbors that they are open to socializing, or left off to signal a desire for total privacy. Jon expressed strong interest in this concept, noting that involving Gen Z in focus groups and analyzing regional data variations would be vital to implementing such strategies successfully.The duo also critiqued the static definition of a traditional campground, noting that for decades, standard amenities have remained largely unchanged, consisting primarily of mini-golf, a swimming pool, a small general store, bathhouses, and cornhole. Jon recalled his own revelation from 2024, noting that half the people he encountered at campgrounds were remote workers and peers his own age, yet the parks were still offering amenities designed strictly for older generations. Jon emphasized the need to approach campground design with a blank slate that reflects modern lifestyle demands. Because Shady Oaks is uniquely positioned just ten minutes away from major retail staples like Target and Walmart in Plattsburgh, guests do not have to sacrifice convenience for an outdoor experience. Jon shared his long-term vision of transforming the property into an outdoor hotel, featuring central gathering hubs, remote work spaces, a morning coffee shop, and an on-brand bar designed around a vintage camper.Brian highlighted the value of small, memorable details over large-scale, costly additions, comparing it to a boutique hotel experience. He shared an example of a minimalist motel in Islamorada, Florida, that utilized small, low-overhead food trucks to offer high-quality espresso and lattes to guests in the morning. He argued that campgrounds do not need a full commercial restaurant to elevate their food and beverage game; simple, well-executed trailer setups can completely shift the guest experience. To illustrate further, Brian discussed how micro-amenities—like high-quality, fluffy towels instead of cheap, scratchy ones, or local organic shampoos—drastically improve a campground's organic word-of-mouth marketing and review scores. He even suggested adding indoor hydroponic gardens to registration lobbies where guests could freely pick fresh herbs like basil or parsley for their camp meals, creating an instantly shareable social media moment.Jon shared that for the first 18 months of ownership, his primary focus had to be on unglamorous core infrastructure, upgrading the water systems, septic lines, and electrical grids to ensure reliability and scalability. With that foundational work complete, he is now shifting focus toward creative expansion. When Brian presented a theoretical five-million-dollar windfall scenario, Jon explained that his priority would be to accelerate his existing three-to-five-year plan. At the top of his list is expanding the resort's glamping footprint from a single experimental tent to a village of five or six domes. Citing data from Modern Campground's 2026 Outdoor Hospitality Pricing Report, Brian noted a significant pricing discrepancy in the market, explaining that glamping units located inside standard campgrounds average around $158 per night, whereas standalone glamping resorts command upwards of $300 per night.Jon explained that his strategy to command those higher glamping rates involves treating the glamping village as a distinct business within a business. To justify premium rates, he plans to group the domes into a private, scaled section of the property supported by luxury-tier bathhouses and private hot tubs. Brian agreed, noting that the secret to a $300 nightly rate is the illusion of isolation. Drawing on examples from experiential resorts in Alberta and container-home rentals in Ireland, Brian emphasized that glampers do not necessarily need to be miles away from civilization; they just need to feel disconnected. Simple landscape design choices, such as dense rows of tall hedges or strategic fencing, can completely block out neighboring campsites and create the premium sense of privacy that luxury consumers expect.As the episode drew to a close, Jon and Brian discussed the administrative challenges of managing a multi-faceted park that caters to seasonal campers, overnight RVers, and glampers simultaneously. Jon noted that booking platforms and standard campground websites often fail to properly communicate luxury glamping experiences, forcing him to rely on Airbnb for the majority of his non-RV bookings. Brian explained how Insider Perks uses advanced AI models to help campgrounds solve this multi-demographic marketing puzzle. By leveraging detailed data frameworks, operators can train AI models to understand specific buyer personas—ranging from a 66-year-old retired traveling couple to a young single mother—and generate tailored landing pages for each. Furthermore, with Google recently restructuring its search engine architecture to favor direct AI-driven answers over traditional web links, Brian stressed that campgrounds must expand their websites to include dense, factual data so that future AI travel agents can seamlessly discover and recommend their specific niche offerings.

May 13, 20261 hr 54 min

MC Fireside Chats - May 13th, 2026

The May 13th, 2026 episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, focused heavily on the evolution of experiential outdoor hospitality and the unique ways campground owners and resort developers are crafting immersive guest experiences.The conversation opened with Jeremy Johnson of Kona Hills Campground, who questioned the current state of dynamic pricing in the outdoor hospitality sector. Jeremy pointed out that traditional software relies heavily on basic yield management and often fails to account for the unique characteristics of individual properties or offer dynamic pricing floors based on seasons. He also noted the value of changing seasons in his own life, which naturally force a slower, more deliberate pace. Zach Stoltenberg from LJA expanded on this pricing discussion, explaining that traditional hotel pricing models rely on clear demand drivers, like concerts or conventions, that are much harder to measure for purely experience-based stays. Zach also highlighted a growing industry trend toward non-RV accommodations like glamping tents and park models, and shared his excitement about a current design project in Utah where accommodation units are being excavated directly out of solid rock.Special guest Travis Chambers from OutpostX then introduced his concept of building immersive, movie-set micro-resorts designed to completely disconnect guests from the modern world. Having achieved high occupancy at his Utah location, Travis shared his plans for an Avatar-inspired jungle resort in Puerto Rico. He detailed his successful marketing strategy of utilizing medium-sized travel influencers rather than traditional ads, and discussed the logistical challenges of remote builds, which he solves by using a live-in, mobile construction crew. Finally, special guest Joy de Vos of Foxtrot Dairy Store and Campground shared her highly unique approach to hospitality through her working dairy farm in British Columbia. Driven by her background as a 4-H leader and a desire to reconnect city dwellers with agriculture, Joy offers educational stays where guests can interact with farm animals, shop at an 1800s-style general store, and even milk cows. She also outlined her long-term vision of securing capital to build a farm-themed glamping village.Ultimately, the entire panel agreed that the future of outdoor hospitality lies in storytelling and providing highly authentic, non-commoditized experiences, whether that means surviving a cinematic jungle adventure or learning where ice cream comes from on a family farm.

May 6, 202651 min

MC Fireside Chats - May 6th, 2026

The May 6th, 2026, episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Scott Bahr (President of Cairn Consulting Group), featured a deep dive into the 2026 outlook for the outdoor hospitality and RV industries. The panel included Eleonore Hamm (President of RVDA of Canada), Simon Neal (Founder & CEO of CampMap), John Lindley (CEO of the Michigan Association of RVs & Campgrounds), and Kevin Long (CEO of The Dyrt). The discussion centered on the impact of rising fuel costs, shifting traveler demographics, and the evolving expectations of modern campers.Scott Bahr opened the session by noting a "mixed bag" of reports from campground owners, suggesting that location currently dictates success more than in previous years. Kevin Long shared data from The Dyrt, noting that Google search volume for camping was down in April compared to the previous year, highlighting a potential cooling of interest or a shift in how consumers are planning their trips. Eleonore Hamm observed similar trends in Canada, where high gas prices (reaching $2.20 a liter in Vancouver) are leading travelers to book shorter trips closer to home rather than canceling altogether.The panel discussed the shrinking travel radius of the average camper. Simon Neal cited a European report showing a 50-kilometer decrease in average holiday travel distance, with a significant majority of campers choosing to stay within their own country. John Lindley noted that in Michigan, campgrounds are seeing cancellations from out-of-state visitors but a surge in last-minute bookings from in-state residents, suggesting that the desire to recreate remains strong despite economic pressures.The conversation shifted to the "era of the casual participant." Scott Bahr highlighted research showing that since 2019, the percentage of campers taking only one trip per year has increased by 257%, while avid campers (three or more trips) have declined. This trend poses a challenge for occupancy, as the industry must find ways to increase the frequency of participation among new entrants who may not feel a strong emotional connection to the outdoors.John Lindley and Eleonore Hamm addressed the rise in RV rentals and the shift toward lighter, more affordable towable units. Dealers are seeing increased demand for units that do not require heavy-duty trucks, allowing consumers to enter the lifestyle without changing their primary vehicle. Simon Neal added that the European market has long thrived on smaller, more efficient hardware, providing a potential roadmap for North American trends toward economy and minimalism.The panelists debated the impact of "sanitized" outdoor experiences, such as glamping and high-end cabins. Scott Bahr argued that while these accommodations make camping accessible, they can reduce the level of nature immersion that builds long-term loyalty. Simon Neal noted that in Europe, "posh cabins" are now in direct competition with hotel rooms, offering a middle ground for leisure travelers who want the benefits of an outdoor community without the ruggedness of traditional camping.Reservation frustrations were a key topic, particularly regarding state park systems. John Lindley described the intense competition for sites in Michigan, where consumers often feel locked out of popular dates. He emphasized that this frustration presents an opportunity for private campgrounds to market themselves as flexible alternatives, filling the vacuum for travelers who are willing to be spontaneous with their locations.Customer behavior regarding flexibility was identified as a permanent change post-COVID. Eleonore Hamm and Simon Neal agreed that free cancellation and the ability to "pivot" plans are now top priorities for guests. Simon Neal suggested that offering premium flexible booking options is a "win-win" for operators and guests alike, as it provides peace of mind in an unpredictable economic environment.The importance of education and "onboarding" for new RVers was highlighted as a way to lower barriers to entry. Eleonore Hamm discussed the success of "RV Learning Weekends" and the use of "ambassadors" by Go RVing to show real-life usage. Scott Bahr noted that younger generations often feel intimidated by the technical aspects of RVing, such as parking and hookups, making dealership training programs more vital than ever.In closing, the group touched on the "shared responsibility" of the industry. John Lindley summarized a philosophy from the RV Power Breakfast: manufacturers must build quality, dealers must simplify the sale, and campgrounds must provide hospitable service. If each segment excels, the industry will remain resilient. Before the session ended, Eleonore Hamm and John Lindley invited members to share their "burning issues" to help guide their advocacy efforts with state and federal governments.

April 29, 202655 min

MC Fireside Chats - April 29th, 2026

The April 29th, 2026, episode of MC Fireside Chats brought together a unique panel of industry professionals to discuss the future of camping, app integrations, and shifting guest demographics. Host Brian Searl steered the conversation while broadcasting on-the-go from the Florida-Alabama conference. The collaborative session highlighted how the industry is evolving as different generations and international platforms intersect with traditional family-owned campgrounds.Setting the stage for the discussion, the panelists introduced their respective roles and backgrounds in the outdoor hospitality industry. Ashley Cary, a third-generation campground operator from Hidden Acres Family Campground, emphasized her family's 50-year history in Connecticut and her active involvement with OHI. Meanwhile, Duncan Winship provided the perspective of a seasoned owner who has been running Papoose Pond Camping in Maine for over a decade alongside his wife.Bringing an international perspective to the panel, Marie Nichols discussed her work with the European-based app Park4night. Celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, the app has grown into a community of over 9 million users across 100 countries. Nichols highlighted that they are experiencing massive growth in North America, noting a significant surge in both U.S. and Canadian listings since 2024.Brian Searl steered the conversation toward how digital applications and mapping platforms can best serve campground owners, asking Nichols about the type of data her app provides. Nichols explained that the platform offers a community-driven model where owners can list for free or opt for paid tiers to track their performance and increase their visibility among global travelers.Responding to these features, Duncan Winship detailed what he would expect as a campground operator from such digital exposure and data. He noted that understanding the throughput, visual appeal, and vehicle types of guests visiting his park is vital. This information helps him target specific demographics, such as identifying if certain unique accommodations perform better with specific types of camper vans.Ashley Cary added to the operational discussion by reflecting on the heavy demands placed on smaller family businesses and the need to streamline marketing efforts. She emphasized that time is the most valuable asset for operators, making it essential to invest in platforms that actually provide value. Cary also underscored the importance of data, especially concerning external factors like the weather, which uniquely impact outdoor hospitality compared to traditional hotels.Building on Cary’s points, Brian Searl compared the fragmented nature of the U.S. camping market to the highly consolidated hotel industry. Duncan Winship agreed with this observation, noting that the sheer geographical diversification of campgrounds makes every park completely unique. They discussed how owners must carefully select their marketing channels to ensure their marketing budgets yield a strong return on investment.The conversation then shifted toward the changing expectations of younger generations entering the camping community. Ashley Cary pointed out that Gen Z is drawn to the nostalgia of camping but also requires modern connectivity like Wi-Fi. She explained that there is a common misconception that younger people only want to be on their screens when, in reality, they highly value the opportunity to unplug and disconnect in nature.Brian Searl elaborated on these generational preferences by suggesting that parks should avoid completely siloing long-term and short-term guests. He proposed that campground operators should create environments that allow all campers to self-select their level of socialization. Searl shared the idea of using simple, non-intrusive signals, such as green lanterns, to show other campers that a guest is open to conversation and community building.The chat concluded with a warm and lighthearted wrap-up where the participants asked each other fun questions. Duncan Winship asked Cary about her preferred s'more candy, which led to a playful debate about whether a hot dog is a sandwich. Marie Nichols then asked Cary about her dream European destination, highlighting Italy, before the show wrapped up with information on where listeners can find their respective platforms and get involved in the industry.

April 22, 20261 hr 0 min

MC Fireside Chats - April 22nd, 2026

In the recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, Brian Searl hosts a discussion on the intersection of artificial intelligence and outdoor hospitality with guests Blair Noel, Thierry Tombelle, and Matt Whitermore. Brian opens the session by addressing the inherent tension between high-tech tools and the "unplugged" nature of camping.He suggests that AI should act as an invisible intelligence layer that enhances the stay without being intrusive. Matt Whitermore notes how quickly the landscape is shifting, admitting that a month in the AI world feels like an eternity.Matt admits his own skepticism toward voice bots evaporated in just a few months as they became essential force multipliers. These tools help manage rising payroll and utility costs across his portfolio of dozens of properties.The conversation shifts toward the creative and psychological aspects of the guest experience with Thierry Tombelle. He emphasizes that technology in glamping must be purposeful and truly serve the human element.Thierry shares an example of using simple remote alarms for tent zippers to provide psychological comfort to guests. He believes the industry's future lies in "augmented staff" rather than total automation.In this model, employees like gardeners or chefs use AI assistants to solve complex problems behind the scenes. This ensures the guest still interacts primarily with a human face while receiving high-level service.Blair Noel from Newbook highlights the logistical power of data, explaining how AI identifies revenue gaps humans are often too busy to spot. He notes that many operators sit on a goldmine of information they never have time to analyze.Brian builds on this by suggesting that "intelligence" is more important than the "AI" label itself. He proposes systems that track gas prices or weather patterns to provide proactive advice to travelers.The panel also discusses the technical side of integrations, specifically how APIs allow operators to bypass messy spreadsheets. This allows for direct, actionable answers regarding housekeeping schedules and occupancy.They agree that the ultimate goal is to use these advanced tools to return to the core of hospitality. By removing the friction of the back office, owners can focus on providing a seamless and authentic outdoor experience.

April 15, 202658 min

MC Fireside Chats - April 15th, 2026

The April 15th, 2026, episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl of Insider Perks and Modern Campground, brought together a panel of industry leaders to discuss the complexities of scaling outdoor hospitality brands, the integration of advanced technology, and the rising demand for luxury wellness amenities. Brian Searl opened the conversation by introducing recurring guest Robert Preston, the CEO and Founder of Unhitched RV and Climb Capital, and new guest Cody Fall, the Chief Operations Officer of Happy Grounds Campgrounds. The group was soon joined by Angele Miller, Co-Founder of Creekside RnR, who provided a fascinating look into the high-end glamping market in New Brunswick, Canada.The dialogue initially focused on the intersection of technology and business operations, with Robert Preston and Brian Searl diving into the shifting landscape of artificial intelligence. Robert discussed the challenges of rising API costs for models like Claude and his strategic pivot toward local, hard-device-hosted models to maintain data security while managing the "monotony" of tax season and investor relations. This technological foundation set the stage for a larger conversation about efficiency as Cody Fall described how Happy Grounds Campgrounds has scaled from one to 16 locations since 2022. Cody addressed the "shadow enemy" of corporate perception, explaining that while seasonal campers often resist the change brought by new ownership, professional investment is frequently the only thing saving distressed properties from aging infrastructure and eventual closure.Angele Miller shared the impressive growth of Creekside RnR, which has evolved into a premier wellness destination. She detailed the opening of a massive Nordic spa, a specialized wellness center offering vitamin IV therapy and lymphatic drainage, and a new restaurant centered around fire cuisine. Angele told a unique story about the construction of their salt cave, which required sourcing massive concrete culverts usually reserved for septic systems, highlighting the innovation required to create "luxury in nature." Her experience served as a live case study for Brian Searl’s observation that lodging and glamping are currently seeing higher occupancy rates and nightly premiums than traditional RV sites, as younger demographics seek outdoor experiences without the need to own or transport heavy equipment.As the discussion moved toward future trends, Robert Preston and Cody Fall debated the long-term habits of different generations. Robert suggested that while Gen Z and Millennials may currently show different camping patterns, the fundamental human attraction to water, food, and fire remains a constant that will sustain the industry. The panel concluded with an "inside baseball" look at their organizational charts. Cody explained how Happy Grounds utilizes a centralized sales and service center to handle guest inquiries, ensuring on-site managers aren't pulled away from property maintenance. Robert shared that Unhitched RV, which has grown to 34 properties with a goal of 50 by year-end, uses a tiered system of area and regional managers to maintain standards. Collectively, Brian Searl and his guests painted a picture of an industry in a state of professionalization, where data-driven strategies and high-touch hospitality are becoming the new standard for success.

April 8, 20261 hr 3 min

MC Fireside Chats - April 8th, 2026

The April 8th, 2026, episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, provided a comprehensive look at how outdoor hospitality operators are leveraging automation and premium accommodations to elevate the guest experience. Joined by returning guests Jeremy Johnson and Zach Stoltenberg, alongside industry experts Zac Cummings, Matt Kraeuter, and AL and Sabine Betschart, the panel explored the delicate balance between high-tech convenience and preserving the natural charm of camping. Despite a brief moment of host audio troubleshooting that kept the live-stream authentic, the conversation delivered high-value insights on streamlining operations, designing purpose-built cabins, and preparing for future infrastructure compliance.Jeremy Johnson, Owner of Camp Kona Hills, kicked off the discussion by highlighting new automation tools like Campspot's license plate readers, noting that seamless, contactless check-ins are quickly becoming a baseline consumer expectation akin to an Airbnb stay. AL Betschart, Co-owner of Countryside Campground, agreed but stressed that from an operator's perspective, technology must be highly intuitive and straightforward to manage. He cited his use of Schlage smart locks and Roku TVs with auto-wipe guest modes as cost-effective alternatives to paying hefty API fees to link disparate property management systems. Building on this, Zach Stoltenberg, Associate Principal of Architecture at LJA, observed that to bypass integration headaches entirely, some developers are abandoning traditional campground software in favor of hotel-grade platforms that inherently support automated lighting, HVAC controls, and seamless food and beverage charging.Shifting the focus to the intersection of luxury accommodations and nature, Matt Kraeuter, CEO of Great Outdoor Cottages, pointed out that park model cabins compete directly with hotels rather than rustic RV pads. He emphasized the massive financial incentive for operators, noting that converting a dirt pad into a premium cabin can transform a $4,000-a-year revenue stream into a $40,000-a-year powerhouse, complete with significant tax benefits. Zac Cummings, Director of Growth and Marketing for Sweet-Haus Cabins, added that younger generations and families now expect these higher-end amenities, meaning manufacturers must partner closely with parks to integrate them seamlessly. To ensure guests don't just stay inside these comfortable units, Sabine Betschart shared her strategy of using low-tech "hooks"—like a wishing tree, hidden trail gnomes, and a barefoot walking path—to entice families out into the woods. Echoing this back-to-nature sentiment, Johnson shared recent Airbnb data showing a massive Gen Z demand for rural stays, explaining that his park focuses on "purpose-built" design that integrates cabins directly into the landscape, right down to adding mudrooms to accommodate heavy winter camping.The conversation took a regulatory and design-focused turn as the panel examined the future of infrastructure compliance. Stoltenberg warned operators to brace for imminent building code shifts—particularly in fire-prone states—that will soon mandate Class A fire-rated roofs and materials for all structures, while also advocating for elevated, hassle-free site designs like push-button propane fire pits over traditional wood fires. AL Betschart highlighted a surging demand for accessible tourism, sharing his recent journey of retrofitting a hay wagon with a wheelchair lift and noting that manufacturers need to create adaptable, flippable cabin floorplans to fit the utility layouts of older campgrounds. Cummings agreed, reiterating that modern manufacturers must assist owners with these very layout and ADA compliance hurdles. Brian Searl concluded the episode by emphasizing that whether an operator is navigating fire codes, designing for winter use, or choosing the right software, the ultimate blueprint for success lies in deeply understanding the specific needs of their target guest before making a single investment.